Identifying genetic factors linked to bicuspid aortic valve

Bicuspid aoRtic vAlVe gEnetic Research - BRAVE Study

Observational University Hospitals, Leicester · NCT04514445

This study is trying to find out which genes might be linked to bicuspid aortic valve by looking at patients with the condition and their close family members.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment700 (estimated)
Ages10 Years to 99 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity Hospitals, Leicester Academic / other
Locations4 sites (Kettering and 3 other locations)
Trial IDNCT04514445 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study focuses on bicuspid aortic valve (BAV), a common congenital heart defect that can lead to serious cardiovascular issues. It aims to identify genetic variants associated with BAV by involving patients diagnosed with the condition and their first-degree relatives. The study employs both case-control and family-based approaches to better understand the genetic basis of BAV and its familial clustering. Participants will be asked to provide genetic samples and health information to facilitate this research.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals aged 10 and above with a diagnosed bicuspid aortic valve, as well as their first-degree relatives.

Not a fit: Patients with known cytogenetic disorders or diagnosed Mendelian syndromes may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved understanding and management of bicuspid aortic valve, potentially reducing complications and improving patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While the genetic basis of BAV is known to be significant, this specific approach combining case-control and family-based methods is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

\- 1. All outpatients and inpatients with diagnosed BAV, of either gender, aged 10 and above.

2\. Affected and unaffected first degree relatives meeting the age criteria.

Exclusion Criteria:

* 1\) Patients unable to give informed consent.

  2\) Patients known to be infected with HIV, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C or any other agent posing an infection risk from unfixed material.

  3\) Patient with known cytogenetic disorders e.g. aneuploidia, chromosomal abnormalities and known karyotype abnormalities.

  4\) Patients with diagnosed or suspected Mendelian syndromes (e.g. Marfan syndrome, Loeys-Dietz syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome).

Where this trial is running

Kettering and 3 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Cardiovascular Diseases
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.